Mobile Handset Shipments to Reach 1.5 Billion in 2011

Annual shipments of mobile handsets will reach 1.5 billion worldwide in 2011 as handset categories evolve into three broad types, comprising voice-centric, converged-function and specialist handsets, according to a new report from Analysys.

"The handset market is transforming as traditional voice-centric devices diversify with the incorporation of a range of multimedia functions. Future handsets will develop into voice-centric, converged-function and specialist categories, driven by increasingly segmented consumer demand," notes report author Dr Yanli Suo-Saunders. Dr Suo-Saunders continues, "In emerging markets, voice-centric handsets will still constitute the largest single product category in the market; while in developed economies, converged-function and specialist handsets will take the lead in 2011."

Key findings from the new report include:

• Annual global handset shipments will reach 1.5 billion in 2011, up from just over 800 million in 2005.
• Voice-centric handsets will still form more than 50% of shipments in emerging markets in 2011.
• Converged-function handsets will become a mainstream product with more than 30% share in developed markets by 2011.
• A range of specialist handsets will take the lead in overall volume in the majority of developed economies in 2011.
• Voice-centric handset manufacturers should focus on cost, design, usability and enhanced functionality for success; converged handsets will have to incorporate a range of compelling functions in order to gain market share; specialist handsets offering a best-in-class experience will win in particular consumer segments.

Posted to the site on 26th July 2006